Dignitas Personae - new Vatican document on bioethics
Introduction
The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF) has released a new document on bioethics. In light of recent strides made in the field of biomedical research, this document aims to address a range of issues including stem cell therapies, embryo experimentation and infertility treatments.
It reaffirms the Vatican’s existing teachings, Donum Vitae (1987) and Evangelium Vitae (1995), and addresses new bioethical questions about issues such as hybrid embryos and cloning.
Dignitas Personae focuses on the dignity of the human embryo, and promotes biomedical research that is respectful of the dignity of every human being and procreation.
Audio
In this extended CCN interview, we speak to Professor David Jones, Director of the Centre for Bioethics & Emerging Technologies at St Mary's University College, Twickenham, south west London.
Interview with bioethicist Prof David Jones on Dignitas Personae (part one)
Interview with bioethicist Prof David Jones on Dignitas Personae (part two)
Visit St Mary's University College's Centre for Bioethics & Emerging Technologies.
Cherishing Life
Cherishing Life is a document of the Bishops' of England and Wales that gives a Catholic perspective on some fundamental moral issues relating to the moral and spiritual well-being of the human person in society, especially those issues touching the value and protection of human life.
Links:
Donum Vitae (1987)
Instruction on respect for human life in its origin and the dignity of procreation.
Evangelium Vitae (1995)
Encyclical Letter of Pope John Paul II on the value and inviolability of human life.
News
09/12/2008
Bishops welcome promising new adult stem cell treatments
18/05/2008
Catholic leaders back adult stem cell research with grant
16/05/2008
Scientists and Bishops meet to discuss ethics of embryonic stem cell research